Pediatric nursing is a special calling. As a pediatric nurse, you have the privilege of caring for ill and injured children, making a positive impact on their health and well-being. It’s a fulfilling profession that requires expertise, compassion, and a deep understanding of children’s development and reactions to illness or injury.
Pediatric Nursing Jobs: Beyond Medical Care
Pediatric nurses play a crucial role in helping their young patients feel at ease during medical exams, procedures, and treatments. Whether working in clinics, pediatrician offices, or specialized units, their responsibilities range from administering vaccinations to educating parents about their importance. Pediatric nursing is not just about medical care; it’s about providing support and guidance to children and their families as they navigate the unique challenges of childhood illness and injury.
The Growing Demand for Pediatric Travel Nurses
According to Indeed, there are currently over 3,400 pediatric nursing positions available nationwide. Additionally, Onward Healthcare offers numerous pediatric travel nurse jobs across the country. If you’re considering a career as a pediatric travel nurse, you’ll need a minimum of one year of experience before embarking on assignments. But don’t worry, travel nursing agencies like DHPL Travels are there to assist you every step of the way, handling all the logistics from job search to onboarding and relocation.
The Nurse Licensure Compact: A Game-Changer for Traveling Nurses
Pediatric travel nurses are in high demand, especially during challenging times like flu and RSV outbreaks. Thanks to the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in multiple states, more than 2 million nurses can provide vital healthcare across state lines. With 39 NLC jurisdictions and states participating in the compact, well-trained pediatric nurses with multistate licensure have been instrumental in delivering critical care to children when they need it most.
Communication Skills: Connecting with Children and Families
Effective communication is at the heart of pediatric nursing. Pediatric nurses need to connect with children of all ages, using various techniques to explain medical procedures in terms they can understand. Additionally, they must engage with the patient’s family members, educating them about post-discharge care. It’s a delicate balance requiring not only clinical expertise but also empathy and the ability to think critically.
Subspecialties and Work Settings for Pediatric Nurses
Pediatric nursing offers diverse opportunities for specialization. Whether it’s emergency departments, intensive care units, or subspecialties like orthopedics, nephrology, oncology, or cardiology, there is a wide range of work settings to choose from. Pediatric nurses can work in children’s hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, rehabilitation units, and even critical care flight nursing.
Education and Continuous Learning
To pursue a career in pediatric nursing, you must have graduated from an accredited registered nursing program and passed the NCLEX. Most hospitals offer orientations and internship programs to help nurses transition smoothly into pediatric nursing jobs. Continuing education is essential in nursing, as medical knowledge evolves. By staying up to date with the latest research, guidelines, and attending conferences, pediatric nurses ensure they provide the best care possible.
Certification: Demonstrating Competency and Expanding Opportunities
Becoming certified in pediatric nursing showcases your expertise and dedication to the specialty. Certification not only helps you stand out professionally but also increases your earning potential. Some employers offer higher pay to certified nurses, and certification can also be beneficial for securing desirable travel nursing assignments. The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, American Nurses Credentialing Center, and AACN offer various certifications for pediatric nurses.
Discover the Country as a Pediatric Travel Nurse
As a pediatric travel nurse, you have the opportunity to explore different parts of the country while contributing your skills to facilities and communities in need. Travel assignments allow you to gain new experiences, enhance your credentials, and test out different settings and cities before committing to a permanent relocation. If you’re ready to embark on a fulfilling journey as a pediatric travel nurse, reach out to a DHPL Travels recruiter today to learn more.
